How do I know if my Ford f150 has a recall?
Check the vehicle identification number (VIN) against official recall databases to see if your Ford F-150 is affected.
Recalls are issued when safety or regulatory issues are identified. Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintain searchable recall records that apply regardless of model year or ownership. A recall requires free repair from Ford or its dealers, even if the vehicle is out of warranty or if you no longer own the car. This article guides you through reliable ways to verify recall status and what to do if you are affected.
Verify recall status for your F-150
Use these official sources to verify recall status for your F-150 by VIN or other details.
- NHTSA’s recall lookup (VIN-based): Enter your 17-character VIN on the NHTSA SaferCar website or the VIN lookup page to see all active recalls for your exact vehicle. The results show campaign numbers, issues, and remedies.
- Ford’s official recall page: Ford’s support or Ford Owner portal lets you search recalls by VIN and view open campaigns that apply to your specific truck.
- Your local Ford dealer: The dealership service department can pull up the recall status for your VIN and confirm eligibility for a free repair or service remedy.
- Recall alerts and notices: You can opt into recall notifications where available, so you receive updates if a campaign affects your VIN or a new recall is announced.
Relying on these official sources helps ensure you have the latest information for your F-150 and reinforces your right to a no-cost repair under recall rules.
VIN basics: finding and using your VIN
Your VIN is a 17-character identifier that uniquely identifies your vehicle. You’ll find it on the driver’s side dashboard, the driver’s side door jamb sticker, registration papers, or your Ford Owner online account. You’ll need the VIN to perform precise recall lookups and to coordinate with the dealer for any required service.
What to do if your F-150 is recalled
When a recall affects your truck, acting quickly can minimize risk and downtime. The steps below guide you from confirmation to completion of the repair.
Before you start the list, note that recall repairs are performed at no cost to the owner and are handled by authorized Ford dealers. The timeline can vary depending on the campaign and the dealer’s schedule.
- Confirm the exact recall campaign: Use the VIN to verify the campaign number, issue description, and the recommended remedy on NHTSA or Ford’s official pages.
- Contact a Ford dealer to schedule service: Reach out to book an appointment and mention the recall by campaign number so they can prepare the required parts and technicians.
- Prepare for the service: Bring your VIN, proof of ownership, and any recall notice you’ve received. If you no longer own the vehicle, you can still have the repair completed using the VIN and dealer records—the campaign stays with the vehicle.
- Understand the repair scope and timing: Free repair means no charge for parts or labor. Some recalls require longer service times or temporary driving precautions; the dealer will provide details and loaner options if needed.
- Verify completion and keep records: After the repair, keep the service summary and confirm the recall status is updated for your VIN in the official databases.
Keeping the documentation and confirming closure in the recall system helps ensure your F-150 is fully compliant with safety recommendations and that no further action is required.
Finding and using your VIN
The VIN is essential for precise recall checks. Locate it on the dashboard near the windshield, on the driver’s door jamb sticker, on the vehicle registration, or in your Ford Owner account. If you’re ever unsure, your dealer can read the VIN from the vehicle and confirm its recall status for you.
Common recall topics for Ford F-150s
Recalls cover a range of safety and reliability concerns. Typical topics include issues related to airbags and restraint systems, braking and steering components, engine software or hardware, transmission or drivetrain elements, and electrical or sensor-related problems. Knowledge of these categories can help you recognize why a recall might exist and what the fix generally involves.
Summary
To determine if your Ford F-150 has a recall, start with a VIN-based check through NHTSA and Ford’s official portals, then verify with your local dealer. If a recall applies, you’re entitled to a free repair, and you should schedule service promptly. Keep your VIN handy, monitor official notices, and document the repair once completed. Regular verification helps keep your truck safe and compliant with safety standards.
How do I know if my truck is part of a recall?
The National Highway Transportation Administration has an individual vehicle identification number (VIN) look up tool. Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if your vehicle has an open recall. Many of the vehicle manufacturers also offer tools to look up if a vehicle has a recall.
What Ford F150s were recalled?
The problem may arise in F-150 pickups equipped with the heavy-duty rear axle and max towing package. Ford issued a recall covering 103,174 F-150 pickups built between January 2023 and May 2025. The recall stems from fatigued rear axle-hub bolts that may break, which can prevent torque from reaching the rear wheels.
How to look up recalls by VIN?
To perform a recall check by VIN, go to the NHTSA website, enter the vehicle's 17-character VIN, and search to see if there are any open safety recalls. The VIN is found on the driver's side of the dashboard near the windshield, on the driver's doorjamb, or on registration and insurance documents. If an active recall is found, contact a local dealership to schedule a free repair.
How to check for a recall
- Find your VIN: Locate the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on your vehicle. You can find it on the driver's side of the dashboard visible through the windshield, on a sticker inside the driver's side doorjamb, or on your vehicle's registration or insurance documents.
- Go to the official website: Navigate to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup tool at NHTSA.gov/Recalls.
- Enter your VIN: Type your vehicle's VIN into the search box on the website.
- View the results: The system will display any active safety recalls affecting your vehicle.
What to do if a recall is found
- If your vehicle is subject to an open recall, contact a local dealership immediately.
- Repairs for safety recalls are provided for free.
- It is also a good idea to check your vehicle manufacturer's website, as they may have their own recall lookup tool.
How do I check if my Ford has recall?
The Ford app will open the Ford Recall page with information specific to your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If your vehicle is involved in a recall, contact your Ford Dealer as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.
